The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested and detained three persons for their alleged involvement in violent and disorderly conduct carried out under the guise of masquerade activities in Etinan Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were apprehended following a distress call over a breach of public peace at Mbioto II Village, Etinan LGA.
Confirming the development in a statement issued in Uyo on Saturday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed that the arrest was made on Friday at about 4:45pm after operatives swiftly responded to the report.
According to the police spokesperson, an anonymous caller alerted the command to violent activities allegedly perpetrated by some masquerades in the community, causing panic and disrupting public order.
“Upon receipt of the distress call, operatives were immediately mobilised to the scene, where three suspects were arrested in connection with the incident,” the statement read.
DSP John identified the suspects as Kenneth Bassey, 31; Ofonime Isaac, 25; and Paul Samuel Bassey, 21, all males. She added that the suspects are currently in police custody and are cooperating with investigators by providing useful information to aid ongoing investigations.
The police spokesperson emphasised that while the command respects cultural and traditional practices, it would not tolerate acts of violence, intimidation, or lawlessness under any guise.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reiterates that cultural displays, including masquerade activities, must be conducted within the confines of the law. Any act that threatens public peace and safety will be decisively dealt with,” she warned.
DSP John further assured residents of Etinan and other parts of the state of the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, urging members of the public to promptly report suspicious activities.
She noted that investigations into the incident were ongoing and that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
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